Monday, 22 October 2018

Early childhood is the most important phase of development of a person’s life. This is when cognitive, social and emotional skills are learned, influencing lifelong educational achievement, health and well-being. When young girls and boys are denied access to the opportunities, care and services they need to thrive and develop to their full potential, this affects the rest of their lives.

We all want our children to grow up to be caring, thoughtful and accepting individuals. Part of this means raising them to believe in and stand for gender equality.

How do we create a world free from gender discrimination?

Edify International School has come up with a Gender Sensitive Program to make a more gender-sensitive environment, bust stereotypes, and make our children, whether girls or boys, more gender-friendly.

1. Our Educators uniquely show students they have a choice when it comes to forming their own identity, to break the norms that society has laid before them which prevent equal opportunities in their lives.

2. We teach our students that all individuals are equal irrespective of their behavioural traits, or gender. We dissociate terms that are specified for a certain gender and teach our students to judge a person- male, female or non-binary- as an individual with a makeup of characteristics and valid perceptions.

3. We teach students to recognize gender bias in language when they hear or see it. For example,phrases like “Be a man” or “Act like a woman”, are heard in daily conversations. We hold discussions about the way gender bias has wormed its way into our everyday language, and how continued use of it perpetuates the bias that inspired them in the first place.

Children, who have been taught the importance of gender sensitivity tend to develop into accepting individuals, standing against discrimination of any kind and helping create a better society to live in. We, as parents and educators, need to come together to make our kids socially and psychologically aware of the social evils and raise them to bring about positive change in the world.

Its time gender sensitivity gets the place it deserves in our society, and the best way to promote this is to instil in our kids the importance of equality in all walks of life.

Friday, 19 October 2018

Between
two students, one with motivation to introspect and grow after a mistake and
one who refuses to try an assignment because it ‘looks hard’, which one do you
think is more likely to achieve academically?

Even
without any considerable information, it is clear that the first student, the
one with a growing mindset, is better equipped to keep striving for success.

What is a growth mindset?

Growth
mindset is not about growth, it is about effort!

When
people first learn about growth mindset, some think it means to believe that
“you can succeed if you just try harder.” There’s more to it than that. For
students to have a growth mindset, they should understand that trying harder,
and trying new strategies, not only helps them succeed at the current task but
also helps them succeed in future by strengthening their brain.

Photo Credit: https://zurb.com

Is growth mindset common among all students?

Carol
Dweck, a lead researcher on the topic, states that as humans, we operate in
both, a fixed and growth mindset.

In a
fixed mindset, people believe that their basic qualities, like intelligence or
talents, are simply fixed traits. They spend their time documenting their
intelligence or talents instead of developing them. Fixed mindset also causes a
common belief that talent alone brings success– without effort.

In a
growth mindset, people believe that their most basic abilities can be developed
through dedication and hard work, brains and talent are just the basic points.
This view creates a love for learning and a resilience that is essential for
great accomplishment.

How does Edify develop a growing mindset in
learners?

·When
fostering a growth mindset, it is necessary that educators acknowledge the
process and effort a student is making rather than only acknowledging outcome
and achievement. When teachers praise students for intelligence alone, students
often respond by not taking chances in their learning, limiting their growth.
On the other hand, when students take pride in their effort and hard work over
outcomes, they are more willing to make mistakes, accept challenges, and grow
as learners.

·Educators
at Edify use diverse teaching strategies, exposing students to different
instructional methods and developing learning skills to handle diverse
challenges.

·Explaining
the inherent benefits of overcoming obstacles can help students develop a
growth mindset. We specifically teach about the effects on the brain when
people push through their comfort zones to grasp difficult topics. The neurons
form stronger connections, leading to improved intelligence over time.

By
implementing simple activities and providing opportunities for students to
develop the necessary skills required to meet challenges head-on, we can help
students find confidence in their academic journey and create an environment
that promotes growth mindset.

In most aspects of life and society there have been considerable changes in the past few decades. One such area is the field of education- many of us will remember a time before whiteboards, E-learning and social media. There is a significant difference between the classroom of 100 years and the classroom of today. We have seen some positive changes to the school curriculum, as well as increased diversity and opportunities for students with learning challenges.

So how has education changed in and outside the classroom?

1. Technology is opening new ways of learning

With increasing development in technology, children are introduced to it from school itself. Kids can research topics online, explore different concepts and find inspiration for their work. Consistent use of technology develops necessary skills for the future in a digital world.

2. The chalk and board method is a thing of the past

Years ago, the classic blackboard and chalk was the pinnacle part of every classroom. Today, very few classrooms have chalkboard, with schools opting for interactive white boards. Interactive boards have changed the face of teaching by giving teachers the ability to access the internet in front of the class, show engaging YouTube videos or even send important study material to students over the emails.

3. Self-learning is highly promoted

Traditionally, teachers used to dictate certain topics and students noted them down. That was all the learning that took place. Today, the scenario is different. Learners are encouraged to think, ask questions, research and find answers to those questions. This way, students take responsibility of their learning and are aware of the areas they need to work on.

4. Individualism is celebrated

Each student is unique and so is their pace of learning and area of interests. Educators, today, allow students to learn at their own pace, without the fear of being left behind. Also, learners are encouraged to practise the skills they possess and excel at a particular subject rather than mug up all concepts and not be clear about even one of them.

5. A broader range of subjects to choose from

The recent curriculum allows students to choose from a range of subjects; subjects which they are interested in. Today education is more focused on the individual needs and learning styles of each child.

6. International curriculums

With international curriculums being introduced in the Indian education system, the art of teaching and learning took a rather opposite phase that it was some decades back. Popular boards are CAIE and IB which offer a holistic approach towards child development and learning techniques.

Edify International School relates to all the points listed above. Edify education boasts of an experience and excellence of 14 years, with 25 schools across pan Asia.

With IB curriculum, well-trained and qualified educators, novel teaching and learning techniques, we aim to revolutionize education in Pune.

The education practises at Edify cater to detailed academic needs of students, from getting the best out of their early education to getting a place at the top University. The way we learn will, of course continue to develop at a rapid rate, preparing students for a future which is highly globalized and technology driven.

Tuesday, 28 August 2018

Edify International School, Pune is a community within a community. We believe that everyone from the staff to parents and the students themselves have a role to play in building an exceptional school and developing successful individuals. We are dedicated to providing world-renowned, high quality international education to our learners.

With over 14 years of proven experience, expertise and excellence and 25 school across Asia, Edify education aims to support a compassionate, diverse and inclusive cultural community of lifelong learners.

Below are the few reasons why we think your child will love us:

Learning beyond the books and classroom

The aim of Edify education is to make students think beyond the boundaries of classroom. Students learn to ask ‘why’ before accepting any norms. Teaching practices at Edify are two-way. Students actively interact and express their views on different concepts. This, we believe, instills the love for learning and makes it fun and enjoyable.

Ask critical questions and seek answers for the same

The pedagogy we follow is different from the traditional chalk and board method. We foster creativity and imagination. It guides young minds to analyse their own thinking and efforts as well their performances. In order to learn, your child will research, and this very act will enable him or her to sustain a thirst for knowledge throughout life.

Innovative programs beyond academics

Our extra-curricular activities are specially designed, catering to students’ signature strength. With dance, music, value education and our D.E.A.R (Drop Everything And Read), we aim for skill development in students. Also, students spend quality time with their classmates in different clubs and committees they choose, hence developing friendships and connecting with others.

Sports education program

The school with its National and International size courts and sports infrastructure and also expert professional coaches supports different sports like swimming, skating, lawn tennis, squash, cricket and basketball.

Exposure to different languages and cultures

We encourage students of all ages to consider both local and global contexts. Our major aim is to develop multilingual students with a global perspective, respecting all cultures and being successful at world level.

Thursday, 16 August 2018

The choice of school and curriculum have a big influence on one’s course of life. The right choice can only be made when one is fully aware of all the facts about different educational approaches. With International curriculum like IB (International Baccalaureate) now gaining more relevance then ever, it pays to be aware of some of the most prevalent myths surrounding international schools and curriculum in India.
Do not miss out on a world-class education for your child on basis on a myth!

Let us dispel some of the most common ones:

Myth #1

International Boards are only for students who wish to go abroad in the future.
Many of us aspire to send our children to a foreign university for higher studies. But the fact that students from other boards too went abroad for further education directly busts this myth.
However, in a globally interconnected world, studying a curriculum that is accepted and recognized all over the world certainly works as an added benefit for students and makes them stand out from the crowd.

Myth #2

An International School curriculum does not help with competitive exams.
A lot of people believe that only traditional Indian curriculum provides in-depth understanding of subjects and problem-solving skills required for cracking competitive exams like CET, COMED-K, AIEEE and so on. However, this is completely untrue. Students of International Schools are more prepared to crack such exams based on logical reasoning, problem solving, etc. and hence they have a slight edge on these parameters compared to other students.
Also, cracking competitive exams is a not entirely a measure of student’s success. The real success to career is achieved when students identify their line of interest and develop skill sets specifically in their interest area.

Myth #3

International boards do no have very high academic value. Indian boards are tough compared to them.
This, once again, is not true. Indian boards are now moving towards application-based learning but in terms of academic value, International schools offer a much deeper level of understanding. The practical thinking, facing the exams, problem-solving skills etc.are given more emphasis in the international schools and that is the key differentiator.

Myth #4

In International Schools, children keep doing projects. There are no textbooks (hence no authentic study).
Yes, International Schooling is far more practical and project based but it is by no means without rigor. There are textbooks that are prescribed in International Schools based on the curriculum they follow (IB or Cambridge). The emphasis is more on projects, writing essays, presentations, exhibitions, games, etc. It is a strong belief that these activities provide more room for creativity and self-learning.

Myth #5

International School students do no get admission in Indian colleges.
Absolutely not. The International boards are well recognized by the higher education institutes in India. More than 50% of students from international schools take up admission in Indian colleges and they do exceedingly well. Not everyone with an International Degree moves abroad.

To sum up, International Schools are different in their pedagogical approach which is more global in nature. A degree from such school talks about one’s global outlook but does not make one lesser Indian. Also, the rate at which national boards are changing, they will very soon adorn a new avatar. And our nation needs that.

At Edify International School we believe that your child deserves a childhood that is filled with play, discovery and learning. Exams are not and cannot be the end goal of a student’s life. With IB education, your child learns how to learn, develop broader perspective, appreciates complexity and gains confidence to ultimately become an internationally minded individual winning at global level.

Thursday, 26 July 2018

Children are certainly their parents’ bundles of joy but they also are the foundation of a promising future of the nation. It is important to teach them well, for on their tiny shoulders rests a bright and wonderful tomorrow. But along with the knowledge of science and mathematics, it is crucial to inculcate in your child a strong character and mindset as well for a combination of both will propel your child’s journey on a path of constant success.

An interaction between you and your child has always proved to be the most effective form of learning for your child.

Here are a few questions you can ask your child for developing a good mindset:

1. What do you like daydreaming about?
What is your kid thinking about when he’s spaced out? Ask your child what he daydreams about and you’ll find out his thoughts and wishes. This would help you to get to know what appeals to your kids and what goes on in their subconscious.

2. If you were a superhero, what would your powers be?
Every kid loves superheroes. Children secretly wish they could possess superpowers as well. Ask your child what he wants his superpowers to be and how he would put them to use. This will help you get an insight into the mind of your kid and find out what his opinion of ‘superpower’ is.

3. Which of your friends do you think I’d like the most?
This will give you an idea of what their idea of right and wrong traits in a person is. Your child’s answer to this question will tell you what they think about your opinions of a good kid are. It will also inform you about what company your child keeps.

4. What is the worst thing that happened to you and what did you learn from it?
Sometimes, grown-ups don’t quite realize what their child is going through and something negligible can also be significant for your child. Asking them about their worst experience will let you know about what counts as a bad experience in their lives and help you check if what they learn from it is negative or positive.

5. What is the best thing that happened to you and what did you learn from it?
Checking their point of views on good and bad things is important. This will help you know what their perception of good and bad in the world is. Children’s minds are vulnerable and undeveloped and hence it is the parents’ responsibility to make them understand what is right and what is not.

6. If you could make three rules that everyone had to follow, what rules would they be?
This will highlight the things your child finds intolerable and aggravating. For a child to grow into a responsible and mature adult, patience is a value that will help him/her overcome any challenging situation with a cool head. If you find that your child is intolerable of the immoral events happening around him, then you can safely say that he/she is on the right path.

7. Out of all the things you are learning, what do you think will be the most useful when you are an adult?
Your kids are going through a constant learning process, at school, and at home. But it is important that they understand the purpose behind all the new things they’re learning and understand how and where to apply the knowledge gained.

8. What chores do you like doing the most?
Your child should learn to organise his/her personal and domestic lives. If your kids already do that, this question would make you realize what chores they like doing and which ones they don’t. You can further try making the chores more interesting.
If your kids don’t do that, this question would motivate them to do their own chores.

9. What are your favourite subjects at school?
This will give you a clear idea of what your children want to pursue in their career. Guide them to excel on a journey of a career of their choice and they will grow up to be strong and confident and intelligent adults.

10. What skill do you have that you think you can teach others?
This question will help your child identify his/her strengths and skills. It may also push them to work with an aim to improve their skills so as to be able to share their knowledge confidently.

11. What are 5 words you would use to describe yourself?
This will give you an understanding of how your kids perceive themselves and where they stand in their own world. It will help you improve their self-confidence and make them mentally strong to achieve their goals in today’s competitive world.

12. What do you want to be when you grow up?
This question will direct your child towards thinking about their future. If your children’s dreams, aspirations, ambitions start to develop at a young age, it helps them start their journey towards their goals sooner. It helps in motivating them, increasing their concentration and focusing skills.

13. What is it about a race do you like the most?
A child’s holistic development is essential. If your kids are participating in a race, teach them that participating and having fun while playing or racing is as important as winning. Be it winning or losing, taking it your stride is what matters for a peaceful mind.

14. Did you help anyone today?
The basic nature of children is to be selfish. But they must be taught that they live in a society and helping others and progressing with everyone is a valuable characteristic.

15. Who do you consider to be your idol?
At a young age, children learn quicker from the things they see rather than the things they are taught. Children follow the people around them, they imitate the behaviour of people they admire. But what matters is who they think is a personality worth following and who they think is worth idolizing.

Tuesday, 17 July 2018

An increasing number of parents are now choosing International Baccalaureate (IB) programs over the state curriculum options. This trend is particularly strong in the senior second year, where the IB Diploma has almost tripled in popularity since the early 2000s.
Globally, the IB is now offered in nearly 4000 schools across 148 countries. Its reach has been extended beyond the senior years to offer primary and middle year programs, and a vocational career-related certificate.
Once considered the preserve of international schools, IB is an emerging rival to state-based certificates – such as the CBSE and ICSE boards. The IB programs are offered in a range of public and private schools.
But what is it about IB that makes it such an alluring option for parents? And how is it different from existing state-based curricula and certificate?

We analyzed parent testimonials on why they choose IB?

Here’s what they have to say:

“Holistic Development for future”
Jatin Shah, father of Nisarg Shah from Mumbai, India talks about how IB helped his son follow his passion of transforming lives through biomedical innovation. Nisarg is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in chemical engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). “Nisarg was always passionate about science, research and potential for revolutionary change that it can bring. His education through IB further helped fuel this passion. In school, the flexibility of IB program really allowed him to sample a wide variety of topics and make an informed choice for his major. Choosing the IB program for Nisarg was one of the best decisions we took!” says Jatin Shah delighted with his son’s successful education and the glorious years to come.

“Inquiry-based learning”
“Our experience of the IB started as our kids first entered international schools in grade 5 and 7. With my background in education, I was fascinated by the program’s presentations which seemed to pour content into all those theoretical concepts we learned in teaching seminars. Inquiry-based learning, teachers as partners, creativity, all joined by the charm of the resourceful International school promised an educational paradise.”, says Dr. Taly Goran, a long-time traveler between nations and continents, a relocation specialist and mother of two adolescents.

“Global opportunities”
Traci and Peter Pietra from Washington, USA, while hunting for the best education for their three young children were attracted to the IB emphasis on global understanding. “IB success means not only admission to global universities (with 18% higher chances) but also scholarships and even course credits. But beyond the rates of college admissions, it seems that the IB program prepares its students for the world of tomorrow. And in what seems to be a better way compared to many other programs.”, Traci said.

Edify International School practices the pedagogy of IB program and CAIE curriculum. With 14 years of proven expertise and experience and 25 schools across pan Asia, Edify now commences in Pune at Hinjewadi. One of the top IB school in Pune, Edify International School aims to create a 21st-century learning experience in which students can build connections between their studies and the world outside their classrooms.
Lead your child to embark on a true world scholar journey through Edify International School and the world is their oyster after succeeding in the renowned IB programs.

We are currently accepting admissions till grade VIII for the academic year 2018-19.Please visit our website for information on admissions process & more.Follow us on Social Media for regular updates:Facebook YouTube